Sun on Sand cover

Sun on Sand

Joshua Redman · 2019

40 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A dynamic interplay of intricate melodies and improvisational flair, merging contemporary jazz with a touch of post-bop sophistication.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Flash — Opening with an energetic and engaging rhythm, this track exemplifies Redman's virtuosic saxophone work while setting an adventurous tone for the album.
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    Between Dog and Wolf — This composition blends lyrical improvisation with intricate harmonies, reflecting Redman's ability to evoke emotion through complex structures.
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    Soft Focus — Characterized by its contemplative mood, this track showcases a subtle interplay between the instruments, highlighting Redman's melodic sensibility.
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    Starbursts and Haloes — This piece features rich textures and rhythmic variety, demonstrating Redman's experimental approach while remaining grounded in jazz traditions.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
68 /100
Alpine
Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate melodies and improvisation, maintaining a cohesive yet dynamic flow throughout.

What we noticed

  • The final track is a reprise of an earlier piece, which adds a reflective quality to the album's conclusion.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic exploration of themes
  • wave-like pacing throughout tracks
  • immersive journey through sound
  • headphone detail hunting experience

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, catchy tunes
  • want instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2019, Joshua Redman was an established figure in the jazz scene, having released several critically acclaimed albums since his debut in 1993. 'Sun on Sand' marks a continuation of his exploration of complex musical themes and collaboration, showcasing his growth as both a saxophonist and composer.
Stylistic neighbors
Brad Mehldau· Chris Potter· Kurt Rosenwinkel

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Flash 4:45
  • 2 Between Dog and Wolf 6:45
  • 3 Sun on Sand 6:01
  • 4 Dark White 3:15
  • 5 Soft Focus 5:22
  • 6 Through Mist 6:30
  • 7 Starbursts and Haloes 5:27
  • 8 Between Dog and Wolf (reprise) 2:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata